10. The Colosseum

This historic landmark was once the battle site of warriors that entertained the locals of Rome. Walk on the grounds where gladiators fought to the death and gaze upon the stadium that once seated thousands. Come in during the daytime and view the immense arena as the blue sky pierces through the open corridors or visit at night when the entire stadium is entirely lit from the numerous beaming lights inside.

9. Cinque Terre

This quaint city located in the Liguria region of Italy is home to “The Five Lands” including Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each building is articulately constructed and organized on a beautiful cliffside bordering the deep blue ocean. The area’s captivating and colorful structures lure in thousands of tourists each year and is certainly one of our favorite cities to visit.

8. Vatican City

Although Vatican City is technically its own country, we couldn’t help myself from putting it on this list. The architecture of this small country is exquisite to say the least with wonderful designs on the inside and outside of these historic buildings. Be sure to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the two largest churches in the world, where you can gaze upon its miraculous Gothic architecture and beautiful interior which was originally designed by Michelangelo himself. Then visit the Sistine Chapel and view one of Michelangelo’s most memorable works including The Creation of Adam.

7. Roman Forum (El Foro Romano)

Walk along the streets where thousands of Romans strolled their way to work and daily activities. Once you wander these streets you’ll feel instantly transported to a time when togas and flip flops were always socially acceptable. If you’re looking for somewhere to capture the true essence of Rome, look no further than our number 7 attraction.

6. Grand Canal

What else screams Venice more than a tour of the city on a gondola? Stroll along the Grand Canal and gaze upon the beauty that Venice has to offer. Take in over 170 buildings that emerge from the waters and date back to as far as the 13th century. This tour is a must for any serious traveler.

5. Leaning Tower of Pisa

Once thought of as an example of poor construction, this Italian staple has become one of the most beloved towers in the world. The tilt or “lean” of this building was the product of poor land location, having too soft of a ground on one side to support the massive structure. After a drawn out closing of more than a decade to solve the increasing tilt, the Leaning Tower of Pisa was once again opened to the public to view the wonderful architecture from the inside and out. Tourists have come from far and wide to view this ancient structure that dates back to the 12th century and can now get a (slightly angled) bird’s-eye view of the wonderful city of Pisa.

4. Trevi Fountain

Designed by Nicola Salvi, this fountain is truly one of the most magnificent sites in all of Rome. The spectacular sculptures of men, women and horses are beyond entrancing to view in person and is quite easily one of my favorite attractions in Rome. More than 3000 Euros are thrown into the fountain every day which is then used to subsidize supermarkets for Romans in need.

3. Eat Pizza in Naples

Italy is home to some of the finest foods in the world including all of our first true love – pizza. The city of Naples is famous for inventing the dish and known for their authentic wood-burning ovens, fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Although you may not find your typical meat-lovers or ham and pineapple, Naples has provided us with some of the most scrumptious pizzas we’ve ever had (trust us, we’re experts).

2. Garda Bike Tour

Most cyclists know that Italy is one of the premier locations for riding. This excursion gives an active tour around various cities and regions of Italy and is perfect for burning off those Italian carbohydrates. Rides on this tour can include Valtenesi & Salo, Valpolicella & Verona, Monte Baldo, Cesenatico and many more scenic areas. Most rides range from 55 km – 145 km depending on your preference. Each path gives a fantastic tour while riding through hills, roads and valleys offering a way to see Italy like never before. Perhaps the best part is that everything is included from your meals, to the bike and even laundry service.

1. Pompeii

Once an Italian metropolis, this ancient Roman city was once very advanced for it’s time having advanced aqueducts, amphitheaters, stadiums and ports. The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius back in 79 AD buried the city in ash for more than 1500 years. The lack of air and moisture had preserved most of the remains and now allows tourists to visit these grounds to see the old houses, buildings and roads that once belonged to the citizens of Pompeii. Walking around this site is truly captivating and eerie with the ancient structures and menacing volcano that towers over the city. This site is absolutely one of our favorites in all of Europe.

Originally from Vancouver Canada, Justin has been traveling the world extensively for the past decade. He's conquered the tallest bungee jump in the world (Bloukrans Bridge, South Africa), sky-dived in Miami, white-water rafted the Pacuare River in Costa Rica, chased the Northern Lights by dog sled in Northern Norway, and game trekked in the Masai Mara.